Insider Scoop: Caribbean and Mexico Hotel GMs Tell All

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On a Caribbean or Mexican vacation, chances are you'll spend plenty of time maximizing relaxation at your hotel's beach and pool. Once you've had your fill, leave the crowds of tourists behind and dig into your destination's local culture. We've gathered the top 5 locals' picks from the general managers at Paradise by Marriott resorts across both regions. Discover where the locals roam, and experience a destination's lesser-known gems.

JW Marriott Los Cabos Beach Resort

Hang out at the spa, beach, pool and so much more at this posh resort in Mexico.

Photo by: JW Marriott Los Cabos

JW Marriott Los Cabos

San Jose del Cabo Mercado Organico: Bring the kids to this family-friendly outdoor market. The little ones can enjoy jugglers and face-painting while grown-ups shop local and groove to live, local music.

Beach Near El Ganzo: Nestled in a cove near El Ganzo resort, this secret beach is truly a hidden local gem. Van Der Kroft suggests bringing a blanket and your favorite book and settling in for serious rest and relaxation.

Flora's Field Kitchen and Flora Farm: This chic restaurant's meals all feature ingredients sourced from its own farm and butcher shop. Bring your best paparazzi camera; Flora's also happens to be a favorite among visiting celebrities.

Art Walk in San Jose del Cabo: Discover the local culture at this weekly art walk where you'll find artists hawking wares, as well as live music and wine.

Aruba Marriott Resort

The West Deck: According to Calame, this beach bar and grill is the perfect spot to kick back, relax and sip a cold Balashi beer. Visitors can enjoy the island breezes and snap a selfie with the sea serving as a sparkling backdrop.

De Suikertuin Restaurant: Order the Nasi goreng with chicken saté, fried egg, shrimp crackers and pickled veggies at this cozy Dutch cafe, tucked into the heart of Oranjestad. The restaurant serves breakfast and lunch, and Calame says the cozy atmosphere will make visitors feel right at home.

Malmok Beach: Visit the north coast of Malmok Beach to watch the sunrise, says Calame. The scenic shore is a perfect route for early-morning joggers.

The Hooiberg: Located in the island's center, this looming volcanic formation offers the best panoramic views of the island.

Frenchman's Reef Marriott Resort, St. Thomas

It's hard to find a setting more picturesque than this luxe hotel in St. Thomas.

Photo by: Corey Weiner / Frenchman's Reef Marriott

Corey Weiner / Frenchman's Reef Marriott

Magen's Bay Park: Visit this serene, nature-filled beach park and spend an afternoon laying under a swaying palm tree or swimming in the calm, turquoise water. Bring a picnic and keep a close watch on the sea -- you might just spy sea turtles.

Paradise Point: Take a scenic tram ride up to Paradise Point and snap photos of spectacular panoramic views of the island.

Schnitzel House: Dig into Old World Bavarian food at the popular Schnitzel House. Fill up on traditional German dishes and sip a cold brew from the biergarten.

Grand Cru: Amp your romance up a notch at Grand Cru restaurant. Reserve a table on the deck overlooking the marina and enjoy watching the mega-yachts twinkle in the harbor.

Tap & Still: Bring your appetite to this local's favorite and chow down on burgers, beer and whiskey. Top your meal off with the delicious funnel cake.

Marriott Grand Cayman Beach Resort

Right on the beach and near to grand golf courses, this luxe resort is Grand Cayman has everything.

Photo by: Grand Cayman Marriott

Grand Cayman Marriott

Island Bike Rides: Tasende suggests renting bicycles from the resort and exploring the island's bicycling trails and low-key streets before heading to a nearby park or beach for a picnic.

The Market: Shop from local farmers, craftsmen and artisans at the Saturday market at The Grounds in the island's Lower Valley.

Watch the Cayman Sunset: Don't miss the spectacular Grand Cayman sunset, says Tasende. The Marriott places funky furniture on the beach every evening for sunset viewing. Guests can settle in and snap a selfie!

Waterfront Urban Diner: This popular, hyper-local hipster restaurant dishes up breakfast all day, as well as burgers and other fare. Don't miss the cinnamon French toast!

Stingray City: This must-do island attraction can be made ultra-exclusive if you have the Marriott's concierge charter a private boat to take you and your family here when the cruise ship crowds aren't there.